MPs to discuss “refugees’” state of emergency Thursday

The Czech government has approved a request to extend by 30 days a state of emergency imposed to help deal with a wave of Ukrainian refugees, Prime Minister Petr Fiala said after a cabinet meeting. The issue must now be considered by the lower house, with a special session set for Thursday afternoon. Without an extension the current state of emergency will end on May 31.

Government officials say the legal mechanism allows for faster and more effective relief efforts, including the provision of accommodation. Around 200,000 Ukrainian refugees are believed to be in the country.